Safety Improvements and Emissions Reduction in Transport

Zali Steggall MP met with officials to discuss transport safety and emissions reduction. She stressed the need for Australia to adopt international standards and address concerns around electric vehicles. The conversation covered topics such as Euro seven standards and plug-in hybrids. Steggall noted that transport emissions account for around 20% of national emissions and are the fastest growing sector. Officials explained that newer vehicles with higher emissions standards often have better safety technology. The role of plug-in hybrids was also discussed, with officials suggesting they meet consumer demand, while Steggall believed range anxiety and misinformation about electric vehicles may also be factors. The discussion touched on an ongoing study to understand consumer purchasing decisions and the impact of range anxiety on electric vehicle adoption. Officials mentioned that the fuel efficiency standard, which recently came into effect, is expected to reduce emissions growth. According to projections, transport emissions will peak in 2028 and then decline, largely due to the fuel efficiency standard and a shift in technology. The meeting was briefly interrupted by the arrival of Deputy Chair David Gillespie MP, who joined remotely after being delayed due to travel issues. Gillespie had been listening in on the conversation before joining and was aware of the topics being discussed.